Germany has one of the best healthcare systems in the world — and it’s built on health insurance. If you’re planning to move to Germany or you’re already living there as a foreign worker, student, or jobseeker, health insurance is not optional — it’s mandatory.
In this guide, we explain how health insurance works in Germany for immigrants, what your options are, how much it costs, and how to get covered legally and quickly.
Is Health Insurance Mandatory in Germany?
Yes. Everyone living in Germany is legally required to have health insurance — including immigrants, international students, foreign workers, freelancers, and jobseekers.
Whether you’re coming to Germany on a visa, EU Blue Card, or family reunification permit, you must show proof of health insurance when applying for a residence permit.
Types of Health Insurance in Germany
Germany offers two main types of health insurance:
1. Public Health Insurance (GKV – Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung)
This is the default system used by most residents. It’s run by non-profit providers called Krankenkassen.
- Automatically available if you’re employed and earning under €69,300 per year (2025 threshold)
- Premiums are income-based, around 14.6% of your gross salary
- Employer pays half of the contribution
- Covers general doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, maternity services, mental health treatment, and more
Popular providers include TK (Techniker Krankenkasse), AOK, Barmer, and DAK.
2. Private Health Insurance (PKV – Private Krankenversicherung)
This is suitable for:
- High earners (above €69,300/year)
- Freelancers or self-employed persons
- Students under 30
- Temporary visa holders without access to public insurance
Costs depend on age, health status, and the coverage package you choose. Private insurance can offer faster appointments, private hospital rooms, and broader international coverage. However, it may become more expensive over time.
Health Insurance Options by Immigrant Category
Foreign Workers / EU Blue Card Holders
If you have a valid work contract, you’ll be enrolled in public health insurance unless you opt out (if eligible). Registration is usually handled by your employer. Your monthly contribution is based on your income.
International Students
Students under 30 and enrolled in a full-time university program can join a public student insurance plan. The average cost is €110 to €120 per month. After age 30 or 14 semesters, private insurance becomes the only option.
Freelancers and Self-Employed Workers
You can choose between public and private insurance. Many new arrivals in this category opt for private health insurance initially due to lower starting costs. If you plan to stay long-term, switching to public can offer better financial security in the future.
Jobseekers, Language Students, and Visitors
If you’re in Germany for job hunting, a language course, or other temporary reasons, you cannot access public insurance. You’ll need a private, visa-compliant policy that meets minimum health insurance requirements under German immigration law.
How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?
Below is a general estimate of monthly health insurance costs for immigrants in 2025:
| Category | Type of Insurance | Monthly Cost (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| Employed under €69,300/year | Public (GKV) | 14.6% of salary (split with employer) |
| EU Blue Card Holder (above income threshold) | Public or Private | Public: same as above; Private: €300 – €600 |
| International Students | Public Student Tariff | €110 – €120 |
| Freelancers | Private | €280 – €650+ (age-dependent) |
| Jobseekers/Visitors | Private Expat Plan | €35 – €150 (limited coverage) |
Note: Actual prices vary depending on the insurer, age, coverage level, and region.
How to Get Health Insurance in Germany as an Immigrant
- Determine your eligibility – Are you employed, studying, freelancing, or jobseeking?
- Choose the right insurance type – Public (GKV) or Private (PKV)
- Get quotes from multiple providers – Use official Krankenkassen sites or comparison tools like Check24 or Tarifcheck
- Apply online or through a licensed agent – Many insurers now accept applications online
- Submit proof to immigration or your employer – This is a required step for visa issuance or employment registration
Can You Switch Between Public and Private Insurance?
Yes, but switching from private back to public can be difficult once you’ve left the public system. Make this decision carefully. In general, if you plan to stay long-term or settle in Germany permanently, public insurance is safer.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Health Insurance?
You cannot get a residence permit without valid health insurance. If you lose your coverage while living in Germany (for example, your visa expires or your employer doesn’t register you properly), you must resolve it immediately.
Failure to maintain valid health insurance may result in:
- Visa refusal or renewal denial
- Fines
- Back payments to the insurer
If you’re planning to live and work in Germany, health insurance is one of the first things you should arrange. It’s a legal requirement, and having proper coverage will give you peace of mind when it comes to your health and your visa status.
Public health insurance is ideal for long-term workers and families, while private insurance may suit freelancers, visitors, or students who need temporary cover.
Whichever route you choose, make sure your plan is recognized by German authorities and fully compliant with immigration regulations.
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